SUMMARY: In May, Mandi Rokx, a Florida mother, received a notice that she and her baby would be cut from Medicaid despite being eligible. Florida’s 2021 law promised 12 months of continuous coverage post-birth, but a computer glitch in the state’s eligibility system, run by Deloitte, led to wrongful cuts. This error, along with others during Florida’s Medicaid review process, has affected many new mothers. A class-action lawsuit highlights how these errors led to loss of coverage for eligible individuals. While Rokx regained coverage after legal intervention, the broader issues persist, impacting thousands across multiple states.

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SUMMARY: Two rival hospitals in Terre Haute, Indiana, withdrew their merger application just before a state ruling amidst public backlash against hospital monopolies. The proposed merger of Union Health and Terre Haute Regional Hospital, the only acute care providers in the area, would have created a single hospital operator for 58,000 residents. Although federal laws block monopolies, the hospitals sought approval under a state “Certificate of Public Advantage” (COPA) law. Concerns raised included reduced access, higher prices, and fewer choices. Union Health intends to resubmit a revised application by a July 2026 deadline after addressing regulators’ feedback.

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SUMMARY: GEO Group, a major private prison contractor, has filed a federal lawsuit against California officials, aiming to overturn a state law that permits local public health officials to inspect immigration detention facilities. The company claims the law, enacted by Governor Newsom, infringes on federal authority and argues for intergovernmental immunity as a contractor. Critics highlight ongoing health issues in detention centers, asserting that GEO’s legal maneuvers could compromise detainee welfare. The law allows inspections for compliance with health standards, addressing past concerns over unsanitary conditions. The litigation will undergo a first hearing in February 2024.

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